Hundreds protest Dakota Access Pipeline in Portland on Thanksgiving

PORTLAND, Ore. – More than 100 Portlanders didn't let the Thanksgiving downpour prevent them from standing with Standing Rock.

“Today, we are trying to bring awareness and solidarity,” said organizer Erika Wilson.

Protesters gathered at Pioneer Courthouse Square Thursday morning and pleaded for construction of the Dakota Access pipeline to be stopped before Donald Trump takes office in January.

They signed a banner that will be shipped to Standing Rock. They also signed a letter to be sent to President Obama.

“I think it’s really important that people focus on getting their voice heard rather than just posting on Facebook and not really taking action,” said Sarah Malony, who organized the letter writing campaign.

One protester, a Navy veteran and member the Hopi-Tewa tribe, said turning out on Thanksgiving was poignant.

“Thanksgiving is a day of mourning to many people and we don’t necessarily celebrate the mythical, ‘Oh, everything is great,’” Alvey Seeyouma said. “What’s happening up there is a reminder of how harsh life can be.”